Last night I prepared a Blueberry Crunch for some friends that were coming over to play Bridge. Once we had finished dinner and began playing cards, no one seemed interested in the dessert. The full casserole dish of scrumptious blueberries, pineapple, and pecans over a layer of a yellow cake mix stood dormant on the kitchen counter.
Instead of being discouraged, I decided to bring it to my Saturday morning prayer group. When I offered the Blueberry Crunch as a breakfast, everyone dug in until there was not a trace of a blueberry in sight. As we ate off paper plates and drank milk out of red solo cups, we talked about how we could change up the recipe, laughing at all the new versions of this creation. While everyone was enjoying their surprise breakfast, I couldn’t help but sit back and reflect on how much pleasure this little dish had brought to all of us.
Many of the major events in Jesus’ ministry happened around food. Jesus demonstrated his compassion by multiplying the fish and bread so that the thousands would not go hungry. He spent the last night before his crucifixion with his disciples sharing an intimate meal. Twice after his resurrection he broke bread with his followers to demonstrate that he actually was physically alive. There are countless times in the book of Acts where meals were shared. Thinking back to our breakfast I wondered if this was how the first Christians felt when they broke bread together in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts? (Acts 2:46) Could this also be the reason Paul told the church in Rome to share with God’s people who are in need and practice hospitality? (Romans 12:13)
Preparing a meal and sharing it can only bring people together in a very unique way. Memories are formed and friendships are sealed for eternity. But most importantly, a strong sense of the Holy Spirit can be felt as we share a meal. As a rush of emotion takes over, I have to smile as I clearly envision Jesus asking to scrape the dish and finishing it with a swallow of the cold milk from his red solo cup.
When is the last time I told you I love you sooooooooooooooo much! You are my sister, friend and prayer partner, etc.
what we have together as Christians, only Jesus could have put us together. I am the lucky one! Your friendship is the treasure we all hope for. May God bless you with many more blueberries. I love you Cora!